Filed: Monday, 16th July 2012By: Staff Writer

Carlton Cole's days at West Ham could be numbered after he was told that he may not necessarily be part of Sam Allardyce's first team plans for next season.

KUMB understands that the former England striker, who scored the first goal in West Ham's 2-1 play-off Final win against Blackpool back in May has been informed that he will not be guaranteed a first team spot next season.

With West Ham chasing the likes of Liverpool's Andy Carroll and Sochaux's Modibo Maiga - who some sources have suggested will complete a move to West Ham this week - Cole is likely to be second choice, at best, for the lone striker's role under Allardyce's system.

And the 28-year-old, who moved to West Ham from Chelsea six years ago has been told to seek a new club should he wish to guarantee first-team football on a regular basis.

The Hammers are still in line to sign Mali striker Maiga this week, with the club still seeking to land Carroll on loan from Liverpool. However the Hammers face stiff competition from his former club Newcastle.